We have NBA picks and predictions for Thursday, December 18th, which features the Cavaliers vs. Bulls and Grizzlies vs. Timberwolves.
Our picks include a best bet and NBA same game multi, and we’re looking forward to the NBA action this week.
Cavaliers vs. Bulls Predictions
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Best Bet
There is good underdog value with the Bulls, and although we were enticed by the $2.69 head-to-head odds, we’re taking the +5.5 line.
They were unable to beat the Pelicans in their most recent performance, where they were dominated by Zion Williamson off the bench. However, with the Cavaliers struggling to live up to their potential, the Bulls could take advantage.
Josh Giddey didn’t play many minutes in the loss to the Pelicans, which was disappointing. The Australian should make more of an impact against the Cavaliers, and he could orchestrate the Bulls’ offence and lead them to a win.
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Same Game Multi
Giddey should lead by example with a big scoring night, having scored just 11 points against the Pelicans. He was much better when scoring 26 points against the Hornets, which is a much better form guide for this game.
Conversely, we think Donovan Mitchell could have two poor performances in a row. He scored only 17 points in a loss to the Hornets, and he likely feels that he needs to do everything on this team. Include under 29.5 points in NBA same game multis as a value pick.
They combined for 250 points when meeting in November, so our NBA picks include over 243.5 points.
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Grizzlies vs. Timberwolves Predictions
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Best Bet
The Timberwolves have four wins over the last five games, and they’re starting to hit their straps after beating the Kings 117-103.
Their only recent loss came to the Phoenix Suns, which came by only three points, so they could easily be on a long winning streak. It should be enough to get past the Grizzlies, who defeated the slumping Los Angeles Clippers last time on court.
They lost to the Jazz 130-126 last week, which is why we’re betting against them. That’s not a good form guide, and the Timberwolves are deep enough to put up a big score on the Grizzlies, who lost 141-125 in their most recent meeting.
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Same Game Multi
There has been no consistency with Ja Morant, who has point totals of 11, 16, 7, 21, and 12 points over his last five games. He hasn’t impressed too many NBA experts recently, so we’re backing him to score under 17.5 points.
We expect a better game from Donte DiVincenzo, who is paying nice odds to score over 14.5 points. He scored 21 points against the Warriors before dropping 18 points against the Kings, so he’s knocking down his shots.
They combined for 266 points in their most recent meeting, so over 232.5 points is worth including in NBA same game multis.
